The Ultimate Guide to Getting Started in RC Racing (2025 Edition)

By Hot Laps Hobby Shop – Your Texas RC Performance HQ

If you’re new to the world of RC racing, you’re about to join one of the fastest-growing hobby communities in the U.S. Whether you’re interested in dirt oval, carpet racing, off-road buggies, or high-speed bashers, Hot Laps Hobby Shop is here to help you find the right setup—and get the most performance for your budget.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll cover the best RC classes, essential gear, tuning basics, and where to find trustworthy resources online.

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1. Choosing the Right RC Class for Your Skill Level

There are dozens of RC categories, but these three are the easiest for new racers:

✔ 1/10 Scale Short Course Trucks

Fast, durable, and great for beginners. Most tracks have SCT classes year-round.

✔ 1/10 Scale Buggies (2WD & 4WD)

The most popular competitive racing class in the country.

✔ Ready-to-Run (RTR) Bashers

Perfect for drivers who want speed without tons of setup.

For beginners researching vehicle types, here's a helpful comparison from major industry sources:

• Horizon Hobby — RC Basics Overview: https://www.horizonhobby.com

• AMain Hobbies — What RC Car Should I Get?: https://www.amainhobbies.com

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2. Essential Gear Every New Racer Needs

Once you pick a vehicle, you’ll need a few important accessories:

Batteries & Chargers

We recommend high-quality LiPo packs for the best performance.
Learn more about safe LiPo handling from:

• Gens Ace Battery Education: https://www.gensace.com

Tools & Maintenance Supplies

A simple starter toolkit includes:

• 1.5mm, 2mm, and 2.5mm hex drivers

• Ride height gauge

• Tire glue

• Soldering iron (optional but useful)

A good reference:

• RC Car Action – Beginner Maintenance Guide: https://www.rccaraction.com

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3. Setting Up Your Car for Race Day

A properly tuned RC car can make or break your lap times. These are the most important adjustments:

? Ride Height

Lower for carpet, higher for dirt.

? Camber & Toe

Negative camber improves cornering grip; toe-out helps initial steering response.

? Shocks & Oils

Thicker oil = more control
Thinner oil = more traction

For tuning help, check out:

• JConcepts Setup Sheets & Tips: https://www.jconcepts.net

• Tekno RC Tuning Guide: www.teknorc.com

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4. Find a Track & Join the Community

RC racing is more fun when you connect with other drivers. The Texas region has great tracks and events—Hot Laps Hobby Shop is happy to help you locate one nearby.

Other RC community resources include:

• LiveRC — Tracks & Race Listings: https://www.liverc.com

• RC Tech Forums: https://www.rctech.net

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5. Shop Local, Race Faster

At Hot Laps Hobby Shop, we’re focused on performance, customer service, and helping you get the most from your RC experience. Whether you're looking for a competitive race kit, high-discharge batteries, chargers, hop-ups, or tuning help—we’ve got you covered.

Stop in anytime or browse the latest gear online:

 https://www.hotlapshobbyshop.comwww.hotlapshobbyshop.com